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Sunday, September 05, 2004
* sites like this make ASH, Canadian Cancer society, etc., look good.
News From The Courts
Do you want to sue Canadian tobacco companies in Small Claims Court for up to $6,000?
Exposing an attitude of extreme indifference to the value of human life, three of Canada's wealthiest corporate citizens have conspired to either chemically boost or genetically produce a new breed of tobacco leaf containing the most potent nicotine levels yet marketed.
Join Justice Paralegal Services in the fight * yes we all need the lawyers to make more money. Take responsibility for your actions people, instead. Sue the real causes your parents (genetics)
British Columbia's lawsuit against Big tobacco
British Columbia press release - November 1998
"The government alleges that the tobacco companies knew of the addictive nature and dangerous health effects of tobacco use and that they conspired to conceal the risks of smoking from consumers."
B.C. fights back -- B.C. Tobaccofacts.org -- the main battle plans are here.
B.C. to battle Big Tobacco -- November 13, 1998 - Toronto Star
``This is a battle to protect British Columbia's children,'' Health Minister Penny Priddy said. ``Some 20,000 of our teenagers will die as adults from tobacco use if nothing changes.'' *PROVE IT ! Give us names, not SEMMAC stats.
Rob Parker, president of the Canadian Tobacco Manufacturers' Council, said the B.C. legislation attempts to set up the government as prosecutor, judge and jury in its own case.
``This is state-sponsored extortion, not a simple lawsuit. We reject these allegations and we will fight them,'' he said.
Priddy said Parker's characterization of the lawsuit is ``outrageous, just nonsense.
Provinces gearing up to battle Big Tobacco
Inspired by the huge success of their peers south of the border, Canadian provinces are beginning to line up behind British Columbia in its multi-billion-dollar lawsuit against this country's tobacco industry.
Ontario Liberal leader Dalton McGuinty promises he'll join the fight if elected premier, Newfoundland's Brian Tobin has pledged to come on board, and Manitoba's Conservative government is already in serious talks with B.C.
For the provinces to turn around and sue the tobacco firms is like to slaying one of their most productive golden geese, the industry says.
``The truth is that the main beneficiaries of the tobacco industry are the governments,'' said Michel Descoteaux, a spokesperson for Imperial Tobacco Ltd., the largest tobacco company in Canada. ``They take more money than any of the companies see.''
The huge profits Canadian governments reap from the tobacco industry may account for what critics call the slow movement of legislation designed to curb the advertising and sales practices of the tobacco companies.
So, whose responsibility is it?
The American tobacco trials
· Tobacco deal dead? * Could be cause of greed, on gov’t part
· Search of CNN for tobacco
· Summary of States Tobacco Trials * billions in penalties, California getting audit cause they can’t account for much of money.
Tobacco.org - lawsuits page - comprehensive source for tobacco documents.
Indiana second-hand smoking trial - goes up in smoke Real Audio of the defense lawyers - why they won the suit
Minnesota tobacco policy and lawsuits
The Minnesota Trial
"The tobacco companies want to run from their documents, they were afraid of them." - Michael Ciresi, lead attorney for the State of Minnesota and Blue Cross.
Minnesota Trial - the papers filed - they're all here on the Blue Cross web page
TOBACCO ON TRIAL - Best resource for worldwide tobacco trials. Northeastern Law School and Tobacco Products Liability Project, where Richard Daynard hangs his hat.
COURT TV - Tobacco trials - Only available in U.S. you say, . . . pity! * yes they want all lawyers to get rich.
Parker and Waichman - Law firm's links to lawsuits around the world and some news.
Kansas suit the latest aim at tobacco cites violations of the state's Consumer Protection Act stemming from what it alleges were deceptive trade practices used by the tobacco industry in denying consumers accurate information on the health risks of smoking.
Connecticut suit based on conspiracy to mislead, deceive and confuse
Rosenblatt's finest hour - Before you go to the transcripts or watch COURT - TV in the Broin case, look at Rosenblatt's early 1994 deposition of tobacco executives who denied the holocaust references of tobacco. He made them cry in court.
Attorneys General addresses and phone number
Andrews Publications Tobacco Litigation Reporter - Sample issue
Not only in America
Gallaher wins U.K. smoking case - March 20, 1998
Nigerian Smokers sue tobacco producers in the Third World - It's a first - October 3, 1997
Francey and Meeuwissen vs. Hilton Hotels - Australia - failure to provide smoke free environment - decision 25 Sept. 97; Use this search engine; if it comes up with nothing on the main screen, just put in the word "francey" under search, and then download the file, or you can download the RTF, it's about 82k (the file is named 970H9750.rtf).
Canada's largest law firm represents tobacco and doctors being sued for malpractice - search for tobacco
Canada, eh?
When the smoke clears, will Canada's tobacco industry be held liable, as it is in the U.S.?
While litigators appear to be smoking out admissions of liability from tobacco manufacturers south of the border, Canadian cigarette makers say the recent U.S. developments will have little consequence here. Not so, say Canadian anti-tobacco groups, who believe Canadian tobacco manufacturers are not completely immune to the legal liabilities of tobacco-related health care costs. Tobacco mortality and other costs to health care are just as valid in Canada, they state.
CHILD CUSTODY ISSUES FOR SMOKING PARENTS
Lawsuits in U.S. - complete list from ASH
Custody article - Smokers may lose custody of kids
LAW ENFORCEMENT CASES AND INVESTIGATIONS
FBI Hotline for information leading to arrest and conviction of tobacco employees who lied to Congress or are involved in illegal activity. * It’s not the enterprising person that would do this? They have made following the law so vague, and restrictive, some people don’t even mind. We no longer have any say, after 7 tries, people realise where democracy lies.
©Dr. Terry Polevoy, 105 University Ave. E., Waterloo, Ont. N2J 2W1
http://www.healthwatcher.net/court.html
American cancer Society’s revenue etc.
http://biz.yahoo.com/ic/43/43092.html
Lexington Smoking Ban In Court
The fight over Lexington's smoking ban continues to heat up. Thursday attorneys representing ten businesses recently cited by the Health Department entered pleas in court, all pleaded 'not guilty'.
The business owners are fighting the ban. They say they have the right to run their business the way they want. Some business owners say they're in a no win situation. They either obey the law and lose customers or break the law and face expensive citations.
All the businesses in court today will have another opportunity to voice their opinions September 13th, when they're all do back in court.
Opinions differ on value of smoking ban in heart of tobacco belt
MURRAY EVANS Associated Press Posted on Sat, Sep. 04, 2004
LEXINGTON, Ky. - Restaurant administrator Michael Logan looks out over the seating area in one of his restaurants and sees financial hardship - the result, he said, of the city's ban on indoor smoking.
If she were in the same restaurant, Lisa Greathouse would focus on something entirely different - smoke-free air, which she said improves the health of restaurant patrons and employees.
After a seven-month court fight, the ban went into effect April 27 in Lexington, once the unofficial capital of the burley tobacco belt. Months later, opinions seemingly haven't changed much. Supporters tout what they say are the health benefits; some restaurant and bar operators decry what they say is the negative economic effect of the ban.
"The Bluegrass Action committee and the city council keep saying, 'Give it time, give it time, give it time.' How much time? How long do we have to wait? How long is long enough? They don't know how long we can survive."
http://www.kentucky.com/mld/kentucky/news/local/9582901.htm
Dakota County passes on smoking ban
By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers(Created 9/2/2004 8:44:15 AM)
The Dakota County Board ground out discussion of a possible regional smoking ban before it was even really re-ignited.
“I believe the role of government is not to be in people’s houses and not to dictate what businesses can and can’t do,” Commissioner Patrice Bataglia said. “People have freedoms.”
“We interfere in others’ lives as it is,” Turner said. “People have a free will. I really don’t think we should have more government regulation.”
County commissioners approve smoking ban
Eating establishments in Morgan County will have until the end of the year to decide if they will allow smoking in their business.
If they do, they will either have to set up a second area that has its own air filtration system for heating and air conditioning, or not allow children in their business.
That was the decision of the Morgan County Commissioners, after they voted 2 to 1 Friday morning to put in place an ordinance that would require existing and future food establishments to construct a separate area for smokers or not allow children inside.
Voting for the ordinance were commissioners Norman Voyles and Jeff Quyle. Voting against was commissioner Brian Goss.
The ban follows a previous failed attempt at a county-wide smoking ban. In April, the commissioners failed to pass a smoking ban, with Quyle voting against the ban at that time, and Goss abstaining from voting. Only Voyles voted both times in favor of the ban.
If a business does set up a separate area, the ordinance requires the non-smoking area to be of equal or greater size. Outdoor smoking would be permitted if it is done at least 12 feet from the entrance to the establishment.
http://www.md-times.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=5231&format=html
Pierce County's indoor-smoking ban may go to high court
Pierce County's on-again, off-again ban on indoor smoking — off for now — may be decided by the Washington State Supreme Court.
Thursday, the court encouraged the Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Health to ask the justices to review the merits of the controversial case.
The dispute began in January when the board, citing health concerns, banned smoking in all indoor public places, even though state law allows smoking in restaurants, bars, bowling alleys and casinos.
A business group sued, and the issue has been in and out of court.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2002026164_dige04m.html
Findlay promises to challenge smoking ban - Scotland
MURDO MacLEOD POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT
HE HAS lived much of his colourful life amid a cloud of acrid pipe smoke that no nannying Scottish politician is going to extinguish without a fight.
Donald Findlay QC, a man as dedicated to the joys of tobacco as he is to the law, says the Scottish Parliament risks acting beyond its powers if it bans workplace smoking, and has warned that he personally might mount a legal challenge.
Last night Findlay won influential backing for his view from Robert Black, professor of Scots law at Edinburgh University and a non-smoker. Findlay and Black say that while a ban on smoking in pubs and restaurants can be imposed under the Scottish Parliament’s devolved health powers, it is likely to stray into the area of workplace and employment law, which is reserved by Westminster.
http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1046112004
Red card for Hampden over smoking
Girl with asthma slams national stadium’s stance on smoking in designated family areas
By Liam McDougall , Health Correspondent
THE family of a 10-year-old asthmatic girl has launched a campaign to force Hampden Park to make its family section smoke-free after she had an attack.
http://www.sundayherald.com/44536
The Art Of Midlothian –UK
Personal (dis)qualifications aside, like many people I have maintained a keen interest in the smoking debate. In fact, I have just returned from Australia (where smoking is banned in all restaurants) and Hong Kong (where the debate is ongoing, but smoking in public places is increasingly marginalised), so I have some recent experience of the impact of such policies. Added to this, I have lived all of my life in Glasgow, a city where, we are now told, simply breathing the contaminated air is equivalent to having a serious smoking habit.
Sheila McLean is professor of law and ethics in medicine at Glasgow University
http://www.sundayherald.com/44514
Lung tests to diagnose one in 20 with illness
DOCTORS conducting the biggest respiratory survey in Glasgow expect that 6% of those tested will have lung disease.
http://www.sundayherald.com/44590
Trade summit on smoking
Published 3rd September 2004Senior figures from the pub trade came together at a summit meeting in London yesterday to discuss a way forward on the smoking issue.
Hosted by the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), the meeting brought together three managed chains and three pub companies, as well as the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR).
The trade leaders were understood to be discussing a new proposal on self-regulation to be put to the Government, following the trade meeting in July with health secretary John Reid and trade secretary Tessa Jowell.
ALMR chief executive Nick Bish said: “The industry understands the urgency and is prepared to move to look after customers and staff – but it is very difficult as the Government has set us a moving target.”
OWNERS DICUSS SMOKING ISSUE- UK
Eatery smoking bans may spread 09/02/2004
By Elisa Crouch Of the Post-Dispatch
A debate over snuffing out smoking in restaurants promises to heat up throughout St. Charles County this fall as health advocates spread their anti-smoking message at city board meetings and mayors' luncheons.
Anti-smoking advocates are launching a public relations drive to persuade government leaders in the county to follow the direction of Arnold, which sparked interest among other area leaders when it approved a restaurant smoking ban in July. Ballwin officials are considering a similar measure.
HAVE LUNCH WITH LEADERS TO MAKE CASE
Smoking sucks 01 September 2004
* I include this due to the thought, that just cause you wear the school uniform you aren’t allowed to smoke? Isn’t that against a person’s freedom? When does the school stop taking responsibility for the child? Would they like to have responsibility for that child the whole time they are wearing the uniform, since this person thinks they are representing them?
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/marlboroughexpress/0,2106,3021093a6520,00.html
Posted at 11:20 am by looped_ca
Saturday, September 04, 2004
MAILBAG: Taxpayer money in Minnesota flows to 'ban smoking' groups
COON RAPIDS, Minn. - The vitriolic and sneering attack on Sue Jeffery, "the embittered bar owner," by Bob Moffitt, the spokesman for the American Lung Association of Minnesota, needs to be rebutted.
Archie Anderson
Anderson is president of FORCES Minnesota, www.forces.org. FORCES is an international smokers' rights organization.
Archie Anderson has his SAY
Midland's smoke ban still sparks fire Janis Leering: The MirrorSept 3, 2004
Sitting at her empty bar, Nicole Lamers doesn't have as much work as she once did.
It's been a year since Midland's smoke ban kicked in, and Lamers, co-owner of Cellarman's Alehouse, said everything she had predicted, has come true.
Not wanting to talk about the smoke ban controversy again, Coun. Bill Thompson was tight-lipped, even though he was one of the most vocal supporters of the bylaw when it was debated.
"It's fine, and I've had many people thank me for doing it," noted Thompson.
http://www.simcoe.com/sc/midland/story/2175649p-2521204c.html
Butt-out bylaw has bar owners worried ontario, canada
By Carl Clutchey - The Chronicle-Journal August 29, 2004
Kim Desjardins is worried sick her sales will start falling like poplar leaves when September rolls around.
The Manitouwadge bar owner says her town’s gold-standard smoking bylaw, which takes effect on Wednesday, will be a death-knell for the business she started in March.
“Most of my customers are smokers,” Desjardins said Friday.
She said many clients who come in for a beer and a game of pool have already told her they won’t be coming around after Sept. 1…………….
http://www.chroniclejournal.com/story.shtml?id=23387
Local restaurants avoiding fines - Ontario, canada
Carly Foster, Staff Writer Sep 3, 2004
BROCK - Brock Township restaurants have cleaned up their act.
http://www.durhamregion.com/dr/regions/brock/story/2182318p-2528464c.html
Smoking by-law takes effect Sept. 4
Smokers across Huron County will be heading outside to light up this Saturday, as the county’s first non-smoking bylaw comes into effect.
By Jennifer Hubbard Signal-Star Staff
Goderich, Ontario Signal-Star — Smokers across Huron County will be heading outside to light up this Saturday, as the county’s first non-smoking bylaw comes into effect.
Originally passed by county council last fall, Huron’s Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) bylaw requires all public places and workplaces to be 100 per cent smoke-free starting Sept. 4, 2004, with the exception of long-term care and psychiatric facilities.
There are currently 189 municipalities that are 100 per cent smoke-free in public places and workplaces, while 28 municipalities have public place bylaws without workplace regulations. Thirty municipalities are covered by partial bylaws
http://www.goderichsignalstar.com/story.php?id=115327
I’m one of "those people"
Karen Lazaruk
Senior Reporter
Airdrie Echo — On the Oct. 18 election, we get to choose council members, school trustees and whether or not to ban smoking in Airdrie. What a ballot.
One question will gauge support for a 100 per cent smoking ban in all public places and workplaces, while another will test the waters to see if residents want a less restrictive bylaw, which excludes bars and restaurants.
I’ll be checking the second box. That’s right, I admit it – I’m one of "those people": A non-smoker, or – as we’re made to feel all too often – a self-righteous over-reactor who wants to inflict her beliefs on others.
I’ve been made to feel this way since I quit smoking more than 18 months ago , and I resent it. However, I also remember being made to feel shame for my habit, back when I smoked a pack a day and loved every last drag.
So having been on both sides of this issue, I say let’s drop the adversarial, judgmental stereotyping and move on to our Oct. 18 plebiscite. I am not a self-righteous over-reactor and the smokers are not a pack of lepers to be shunned. And let’s not forget the business owners’ stake in all this, as well as their rights over their own property.
And there’s the dilemma in a nutshell: we all live here, we all have rights. Smoking is not illegal, but breathing it in at work gives me a headache and makes me stink. Those are the facts – what do we do now?
We vote.
NO Ifs and or Butts for Staff Saskatchewan
Wednesday, September 1, 2004
Students hoping to light up when they return to classes this fall will find it increasingly difficult to do so.
Both the Moose Jaw Public School Division and Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Separate School Division have policies in place this year that prevent kids from smoking on school premises.
According to David Steele, director of education for the public school division, all high schools within the division are attempting to kick the habit on school property.
“We’re going to get to a point where there is no smoking at schools,” said Steele, noting smoking is already prohibited at elementary schools.
Starting this fall, only students in Grade 12 are allowed to smoke at public high schools, including Central, Riverview and Peacock Collegiates. Grade 11 students are no longer allowed to smoke according to the division’s new policy.
Peacock vice-principal Derrick Huschi said the policy is part of a plan to gradually make the schools smoke-free. Two years ago, only students in Grade 9 were not allowed to smoke. Last year the policy was extended to include Grade 10 students, and has been expanded to Grade 11 for the new school year.
It is expected that Grade 12 students will not be allowed to smoke at all during the 2005-06 school year.
The facts on teen smoking are alarming. According to www.the truth.com, it is estimated that tobacco companies make $1.8 billion from under age sales alone each year. Approximately 2,000 teens start smoking every day, and more than 80 per cent of all adult smokers say they started smoking before the age of 18. Although 70 per cent of smokers want to quit, only five per cent succeed each year.
Grade 12 students at Peacock are currently allowed to smoke in a designated area known as Smoker’s Alley, located at the back of the school along Caribou Street East. Students are not allowed to smoke anywhere else in the vicinity of the school, which is considered to be a one-block radius.
Smoking may take place before and after school, at lunch and during the 10-minute break. The school becomes a closed campus for the other two five-minute breaks, Huschi said.
“Most students buy into it, (but) there are some students who will try to push it,” said Huschi.
If a student is caught smoking, there are several disciplinary steps taken. Huschi said for a first offence, only a warning is given. For a second offence, a student is assigned detention. A one-day suspension is given for a third offence, three days for a fourth offence and 10 days for a fifth offence.
Huschi noted that the increasingly strict smoking policy has nothing to do with new municipal legislation that prevents smoking in public places. He cited that the school board’s policy began two years ago, and that the new legislation still allows for smoking outside of a public building.
In the past, students at Peacock had to obtain a smoker’s card, which had to be signed by their parents, stating that they allowed their child to smoke. Huschi said even if a parent calls the school to give their permission for their child to smoke, the new policy will still not tolerate smoking by students in Grade 11 or lower.
In addition to going smoke-free, the public school division is also attempting to encourage teens to kick the habit. Huschi said Peacock has run a Kick the Nics program in the past, as well as educated students on the negative effects of smoking in health and wellness classes.
Vanier Collegiate, which belongs to the Holy Trinity Catholic Separate School Division, has a similar policy to Peacock’s.
“We’ve always been no-smoking on the premises,” said Vanier principal Shannon Pearce, adding that the school’s policy has just been extended to ensure that students do not smoke within one block of the school.
Pearce said the policy is designed to not only prevent students from smoking on school premises, but also to cut down on loitering near neighbourhood homes.
Initially, Grade 9 students were not allowed to smoke in the parking lot, which is where administrators found they congregated most often. The following year it was expanded to include Grade 10. Now the policy says no one is allowed to smoke on or near the school premises.
The Holy Trinity smoking policy specifically states that it applies to staff, employees, visitors and board members as well.
If a student at Vanier is caught smoking, the first step is for them to make a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society. The next step is a talk with Pearce.
“So far we’ve had the odd student (who has not responded to the new policy), but I’ve talked to them and they seem receptive,” said Pearce.
Vanier also runs the Kick the Nics program. Pearce said the school does its best to help students stop smoking.
“If students want to quit we link them in the right direction,” he said
http://www.mjtimes.sk.ca/news.aspx?storyID=20663
Safety at boat race eyed -winnepeg
By KATIE CHALMERS, STAFF REPORTER Tue, August 24, 2004
Organizers of the Canadian Cancer Society's dragon boat race are figuring out what changes need to be made for next year after a participant died of a heart attack during the event. George Jarvis, a 58-year-old who participated with other volunteers from Reimer Express, died on Aug. 13.
A spokeswoman for the Cancer Society's Manitoba division said they will review what emergency response should be available at The Forks, including personnel and equipment, during the races.
"We will be looking at the whole event and determine what is necessary to have on site," said spokeswoman Lynne Billings.
There are no paramedics on standby or access to a defibrillator during the three-day event, which ran this year Aug. 13-15.
CPR PERFORMED
Jarvis was on his team's boat when he suffered a heart attack before the race started. His teammates flagged down the crew of a water safety boat who rushed him to shore.
CPR was performed and a first aid crew from St. John Ambulance called paramedics.
A funeral for Jarvis was held last Friday.
"We extend condolences to the family," Billings said. "It's a very unfortunate incident."
Death at the Winnipeg Cancer Event
Strong-arm tactics unwelcome Derek Lawrence Alberta
Guest comment
I believe some sanity has to come into play regarding the strong-arm tactics which are being used by the Airdrie Smoke Free Coalition.
These people were (camping) canvassing during a soccer tournament where people were asked (to sign a smoke-free petition) while in the presence of other parents. Normally, any canvassing should be done door-to-door, where any pressures from your peers or neighbours are unknown. But here, people were solicited for their signatures in the presence of friends. We demand a secret ballot in a democracy – why should we not demand the same for soliciting changes to any bylaws?
I truly believe that smoking in public places should be limited – but by the same token, people walking down Main Street or, for that matter, jogging in downtown Calgary breathe in what? Not cigarette smoke, but exhaust fumes.
We need to take a moderate stand on smoking and not bow to the lemmings or the Chicken Littles of the world.
http://airdrieecho.com/story.php?id=115065
Smoke-free group threatens legal action
‘Adversarial’ move angers council members Alberta
Karen Lazaruk
Senior Reporter
Airdrie Echo — The issue of Airdrie’s proposed smoking bylaw became even more heated Monday night, as members of the Airdrie Smoke-Free Coalition threatened legal action if the bylaw is not changed to include home-based businesses.
Coalition member Lisa Timmermans told Airdrie city council that to exclude home-based businesses from the bylaw – which will be put to a vote of the electorate this fall – is to ignore the wishes of 3,360 petitioners who signed their names to a draft bylaw calling for all public spaces and workplaces in the city to become smoke-free.
"All people who live and work in Airdrie deserve to be safe from second-hand smoke," Timmermans said, "and council’s amendment (to the coalition’s proposed bylaw) does not do this."
Timmermans said that coalition members feel compelled to be heard on this issue.
"On behalf of the 3,360 residents, we will proceed with legal action; however, if council amends the bylaw tonight, legal action will not be taken," she said, adding that the coalition would agree to extending the reprieve for seven days, if council agreed to hold a special meeting on the issue within that timeframe.
City council voted to have city staff members review the coalition’s legal opinion on the issue and report back at its next regular meeting, which is scheduled for Sept. 7.
Some council members were noticably angered by the presentation. Alderman Richard Siemens calmly, but firmly, made his opinion clear.
"I’m a bit taken aback by the approach the coalition has taken ... I think we achieve more by choosing not to put ourselves in an adversarial position," Siemens said. "The threat of legal action has raised the hairs on the back of my neck ... this kind of approach is unreasonable.
"It is not reasonable, kind or decent," he added.
Coalition member Kim Hill responded by saying: "We felt that we had no other recourse ... we’re just acting on (the petitioners’) interest."
Alderman Marlene Weaver said that she, too, was caught off guard by the demand.
"I’m almost too angry to even speak," Weaver said, adding that to wait on discussing the issue would provide a needed "cooling off period."
During council’s Aug. 3 meeting, first reading was given to a bylaw which bans smoking in all public places and workplaces, with the exclusion of private homes. The issue will be put to a vote of the electorate during the municipal election this October. As previously mentioned, the bylaw differs from that which the coalition drafted and secured support for via a petition, which includes banning smoking in home-based businesses in the area of the home where work is conducted.
http://airdrieecho.com/story.php?id=113411
City, coalition come to terms on smoking ban September 1, 2004 - alberta
Karen Lazaruk
Senior Reporter
Airdrie Echo — Home-based businesses will be left out of the City of Airdrie’s proposed bylaw to ban smoking – and the Airdrie Smoke-Free Coalition is said to be OK with that.
The day after a heated exchange took place at Airdrie city council’s Aug. 16 meeting – during which coalition members demanded the city amend the bylaw under consideration to include home-based businesses or face legal action – officials from both sides say they met and worked things out.
"We’re actually on the same page now," said coalition spokesperson Kim Hill, adding that coalition members met with city manager George Keen Aug. 17 and talked things through. "Both sides feel really good."
Keen confirmed that agreement had been reached.
"Basically, we’re in agreement on the wording of the bylaw," Keen said, adding that he believes the Aug. 16 incident was the result of suspicion, about the city’s motives with regard to the smoking ban, on behalf of coalition members. "They were expecting a fight and didn’t get one ... they were suspicious."
Hill said coalition members had repeatedly tried contacting city officials about the smoking ban and felt they weren’t getting a response, which led them to speak to council Aug. 16.
"It was frustrating for us," Hill said, adding that she feels confident now that the city does not have a hidden agenda and added that the coalition doesn’t either.
After receiving the petition June 22, the city moved forward on the issue in accordance with the municipal government act. However, conflict resulted from council’s amendments to the coalition’s draft bylaw, which exclude home-based businesses and reduce the smoke-free area in front of entranceways to buildings from six metres to three metres.
Deputy-mayor Linda Bruce said she doesn’t think the coalition meant any harm with its threat of legal action and stressed that the roles of city council and the coalition in the community are different.
"They (the coalition members) are not elected, we are ... it is truly about democracy," Bruce said. "I think, in the end, they will get what they want, but they have to let it happen, let democracy work."
Hill said the coalition wanted home-based businesses included in the smoking ban in order to create "a level playing field" for all Airdrie businesses which will be affected by the 100 per cent smoke-free bylaw if passed. However, she added, it was not understood until the Aug. 17 meeting with city officials that under such a law, the entire home – not just the office space – would be affected.
"We don’t want to invade people’s homes ... we’re not radical like that," she said.
As well, Hill said, the coalition acquiesced on the issue of home-based businesses since many of the 3,360 residents who signed its petition may not have realized that the coalition intended to include home-based businesses – something which was stated in the coalition’s draft bylaw, but not specifically on the petition.
"It wasn’t really stated in the petition itself ... we feel that isn’t really fair," she said.
http://airdrieecho.com/story.php?id=114150
Posted at 1:18 am by looped_ca
Friday, September 03, 2004
Medical Doctor Claims Tobacco can improve your Health.
Proof of the Health Benefits of Tobacco, backed by clinical studies. Proof of cover-ups and false science behind the Anti-Tobacco movement.
Little Rock, AR (PRWEB) September 1, 2004 -- Noted author and physician, Dr. William Campbell Douglass II MD, has uncovered the facts about the fraud of the EPA and the health benefits of smoking and tobacco. The truth is being told in his latest book, The Health Benefits of Tobacco. Research from respected researchers and scientific journals prove smoking and tobacco are not the killers the establishment has claimed, and that moderate smoking can actually be good for you.
The Health Benefits of Tobacco has been eagerly awaited and now is ready for distribution. Your listeners will be astounded as Dr. Douglass answers questions about his research and the information he has uncovered in this thought provoking book. Some will be in disbelief; some relieved, and some ashamed of the way they have treated smokers. But all will learn that tobacco can:
Help you live longer.
Relieve the symptoms of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Optimize your weight.
Improve your heart health.
Reduce your risk of various cancers.
Plus, you will learn about the lies and cover-ups from the EPA, Insurance companies, and the Anti-Tobacco, Anti-Freedom establishment.
A veteran of radio talk shows for nearly 40 years, Dr Douglass is an expert at informing, educating, and entertaining your listeners.
Contact:
David Mitty
888.505.2670.
David4Rhino@aol.com
www.drtobacco.com
http://www.emediawire.com/releases/2004/9/emw153998.htm
Warning over passive smoking UK
Madeleine Brindley, The Western Mail Sep 3 2004
MORE than two million people in Britain are exposed to tobacco smoke at work, say campaigners.
And another 10 million people - 38% of workers - are still working in environments where smoking is allowed somewhere on the premises.
* notice they don’t say the quantity that people are exposed to. That would be science based discussion (epidemiology).
PASSIVE SMOKING WARNINGS -UK
Ban on smoking goes up in smoke The injunction is being flouted flagrantly on the railway station causing inconvenience to many Raakhi Jagga Ludhiana, September 2/04 -India
Apparently, the injunctions of the government are not being taken seriously. In fact, flouting them hook, line and sinker seems to have become a norm.
Consider this: government bans smoking in public but the rule is being flagrantly violated. The rogue rings of smoke at the railway station not only signal the violation of the law right under the nose of the authorities but also their deliberate obliviousness towards the inconveniences caused to the non-smoking passengers.
(This is sheer injustice on part of the government. We are habitual smokers and cannot stop smoking. If the government wants to implement any such rule, then they should first ban the companies manufacturing cigarettes and biris. When there will be no cigarette in market then we will not smoke.)
http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=98076
Trade summit on smoking
Published 3rd September 2004Senior figures from the pub trade came together at a summit meeting in London yesterday to discuss a way forward on the smoking issue.
Hosted by the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), the meeting brought together three managed chains and three pub companies, as well as the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR).
The trade leaders were understood to be discussing a new proposal on self-regulation to be put to the Government, following the trade meeting in July with health secretary John Reid and trade secretary Tessa Jowell.
ALMR chief executive Nick Bish said: “The industry understands the urgency and is prepared to move to look after customers and staff – but it is very difficult as the Government has set us a moving target.”
OWNERS DICUSS SMOKING ISSUE- UK
Eatery smoking bans may spread 09/02/2004
By Elisa Crouch Of the Post-Dispatch
A debate over snuffing out smoking in restaurants promises to heat up throughout St. Charles County this fall as health advocates spread their anti-smoking message at city board meetings and mayors' luncheons.
Anti-smoking advocates are launching a public relations drive to persuade government leaders in the county to follow the direction of Arnold, which sparked interest among other area leaders when it approved a restaurant smoking ban in July. Ballwin officials are considering a similar measure.
HAVE LUNCH WITH LEADERS TO MAKE CASE
Smoking sucks 01 September 2004
* I include this due to the thought, that just cause you wear the school uniform you aren’t allowed to smoke? Isn’t that against a person’s freedom? When does the school stop taking responsibility for the child? Would they like to have responsibility for that child the whole time they are wearing the uniform, since this person thinks they are representing them?
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/marlboroughexpress/0,2106,3021093a6520,00.html
Court loss in cigarette compensation bid 30 August 2004 - Australia
The adult children of Invercargill smoker Janice Pou, who died of lung cancer two years ago, have lost the first round in a bid for compensation from tobacco companies.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3017864a11,00.html
Pennsylvania Revenue Department Releases August Collections
HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania Secretary of Revenue
Gregory C. Fajt today …
Other General Fund revenue including the Cigarette, Malt Beverage and
Liquor Tax totaled $166.8 million for the month, $20.1 million above estimate,
bringing the year-to-date total to $257.3 million, which is $18.9 million
above estimate.
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Revenue
Web Site: http://www.state.pa.us
PENSYLVANNIA REVENUE REPORT
Smoking focus of mayor's forum
Advocate staff writer By SCOTT DYER sdyer@theadvocate.com
Five of the seven candidates for mayor-president clashed Tuesday on whether to limit cigarette smoking in East Baton Rouge Parish's public places.
The election is Sept. 18; a runoff, if necessary, will be Nov. 2.
http://www.2theadvocate.com/stories/090104/new_forum001.shtml
O’Neill and Surfers Against Sewage (SAS)
O’Neill kick start kids to clean up Britain’s beaches
Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 02 September 2004: * Don’t know if they archive. Page won’t load, to selected region
http://www.surfersvillage.com/_sv0800/globalsurfnews/news2.asp?num_news=14167
Huffing and puffing By CHRIS MIER - GM Today Staff September 3, 2004
When it comes to the effectiveness, or lack thereof, of all the preventative and punitive programs in place, however, officer Rudolph probably got it right: "Some kids just have their minds made up, unfortunately."
Brandon Kelly of Grafton, now 20, has been smoking since he was 9 years old. Programs like Wisconsin Wins and local law enforcement efforts are trying to stop the next generation from starting the habit by holding responsible those who sell tobacco products illegally to minors. Do they work? Teen smokers remain skeptical.
This story appeared in the News Graphic on Sept. 2, 2004
TEEN SMOKING PROGRAMS WORKING?
County Cancer Pockets Are a Puzzle From the Los Angeles Times
High levels of certain respiratory and throat cancers are found in parts of southeast L.A. County. The study offers no reason.
By Deborah Schoch Times Staff Writer September 3, 2004
Mack labeled as high risk only those tracts whose rates were more than 50% higher than the average county rate and which couldn't easily be explained by chance. What especially caught his eye were higher levels of cancers in adjacent census tracts.
The likelihood that five or six of them would line up is very, very small," Mack said.
The proximity of high-risk areas to freeways does not yet establish cause and effect, said Laden, when told of the study. "It's diseases that make sense," she said, "but this could be totally coincidence."
http://ktla.trb.com/news/local/la-me-cancer3sep03,0,5357786.story?coll=ktla-news-1
Shoppers stub it out United Kingdom
SMOKERS asked to stub out their cigarettes at another Greater Manchester shopping centre have delighted its bosses.
The Spindles and Town Square centre in Oldham introduced the ban this week after 86 per cent of shoppers backed the idea in a poll.
And centre chiefs say they have been surprised by the reaction from smokers since the first signs went up on the doors.
Should smoking be banned in all public places? Have your say.
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/news/s/129/129272_shoppers_stub_it_out.html
D.A. dismisses ethics charges SAN FRANCISCO
Judge had earlier ruled in favor of ex-planning commissioner
Lance Williams, Chronicle Staff Writer
National and World Briefs
U.S. tobacco trial set despite pleas for delay Winston-Salem Journal Friday, September 3, 2004
WASHINGTON - The Justice Department's $280 billion racketeering suit against Altria Group Inc.'s Philip Morris USA, Reynolds American Inc. and other U.S. cigarette-makers will begin trial Sept. 21 as scheduled, a judge said yesterday.
Judge Gladys Kessler of U.S. District Court, who has not formally ruled on a request by the tobacco companies to delay the trial until January, discussed the case in a hearing yesterday to work out last-minute disputes.
"We don't have a lot of time," Kessler said during the one-hour hearing in Washington. "I'll see you all on the 21st."
On Wednesday, the companies asked Kessler to delay the trial's start because of a November appeal before a higher court that will determine whether the government can ask for the forfeiture of $281 billion in cigarette profits earned since 1971.
RACKETEERING SUIT GOES AHEAD
D.A. dismisses ethics charges SAN FRANCISCO
Judge had earlier ruled in favor of ex-planning commissioner
The district attorney dismissed the remaining criminal charges Thursday against a former San Francisco planning commissioner who had been accused of illegally hiring himself out as a consultant to developers seeking city planning permits.
Three key ethics charges faced by onetime commission President Hector Chinchilla had been thrown out of court last year by a judge who ruled that he hadn't been given fair warning about a key government ethics law he was accused of violating.
At a hearing Thursday in San Francisco Superior Court, four additional misdemeanor charges that hadn't been affected by Judge Cynthia Ming-Mei Lee's 2003 ruling also were dropped. With the core of the case eliminated by Lee's ruling, there just wasn't sufficient evidence to proceed, said prosecutor David Pfeifer.
The decision by District Attorney Kamala Harris ended a case that had roiled City Hall near the end of Mayor Willie Brown's tenure there.
LACK OF KNOWLEDGE GOOD EXCUSE
Health of millions of employees hangs on smoking ban: study
*notice they don’t say how they are exposed.
Local authorities are being urged to make all workplaces and enclosed public places smokefree after new research found that millions of UK workers are still operating in smoky environments.
http://www.4ni.co.uk/nationalnews.asp?id=32897
Star Scientific sells 1.5 million shares
Chester-based tobacco company Star Scientific Inc. said yesterday that it has completed the sale of 1.5 million shares of common stock.
On Aug. 31, a small group of investors led by Iroquois Capital LP bought the shares for about $6.8 million. Star said its management expects to use the proceeds to fund cash requirements for its patent litigation against the former R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., outstanding accounts payable and other needs.
Star, a maker of discount cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products, filed a lawsuit in 2000 against Reynolds, the nation's second-largest cigarette company. The suit accuses Reynolds of infringing on Star's patent for a process that reduces cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco leaf.
Reynolds merged with Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corp. in July, creating Reynolds American Inc.
A pretrial conference was held Wednesday, and the judge said the trial will begin Jan. 24.
COMPANY SELLS SHARES TO TAKE ON REYNOLDS TOBACCO
Posted at 6:44 pm by looped_ca
Thursday, September 02, 2004
New virus suspected in two SIDS cases
Associated Press
MILWAUKEE NEW VIRUS FOR SIDS?
Scottish smoking consultation 'shambles Published 2nd September 2004
'The Scottish trade has branded the smoking consultation a “shambles” following First Minister Jack McConnell’s claim that a smoking ban was “desirable” for Scotland.
The minister visited Dublin this week in a fact-finding mission to see how its smoking ban was working.
SCOTTISH MINISTER PRETENDS TO CONSULT
Dakota County passes on smoking ban
By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers (Created 9/2/2004 8:44:15 AM)
http://www.mnsun.com/story.asp?city=West_St_Paul&story=142420
County board asks for specifics on smoking ban
By Justin Piehowski Sun Newspapers (Created 9/2/2004 8:46:06 AM)
http://www.mnsun.com/story.asp?city=Shorewood&story=142533
Restaurant, bar owners say let businesses take care of smoking
By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers (Created 9/2/2004 8:43:46 AM )
‘http://www.mnsun.com/story.asp?city=Mendota_Heights&story=142389
Smoking ban 'hits Guinness sales' - Ireland
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/3621386.stm
Kensington to begin enforcing smoking ban –Maryland, USA
by Charlotte Tucker Sep. 1, 2004
http://www.gazette.net/200436/kensington/news/233545-1.html
York County officials designate area for smokers
Workers and visitors at new judicial center have been given a place to take smoke breaks.
By TERESA ANN BOECKEL
For The Evening Sun
http://www.eveningsun.com/Stories/0,1413,140~9956~2376023,00.html#top
Students feel the power as November vote nears - Wisconsin
By David Callender September 2, 2004
http://www.madison.com/tct/news/index.php?ntid=9430&ntpid=0
Nicotine addict nurse is struck off Published on 02 September 2004 - England
http://w3.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/story.asp?StoryID=60783
Anti-smoking drive to kick off in Paisley Sep 2 2004 - England
ASH HOPES PAISLEY WILL BE FIRST
Learning the lesson - ireland
JACK McConnell’s pledge that he won’t allow Scottish universities to end up worse off than their English counterparts is perhaps the most important signal he has sent in his tenure as First Minister.
Universities and education are probably the most important issues facing the country.
This is where the Executive should concentrate its efforts rather than on high-profile, low-substance issues like smoking bans.
http://news.scotsman.com/opinion.cfm?id=1030592004
Hawaii women rank high in health
A CDC report finds lower risks here for major causes of death
By Rod Antone
rantone@starbulletin.com
Hawaii has the lowest death rate per capita for women in the nation, according to a study released yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
According to the report, titled the Women's Health and Mortality Chartbook, Hawaii women were at the lowest risk for a number of major causes of death, including cancer, heart disease and lower respiratory diseases. The study also ranks Hawaii among the top 10 states for women with the highest levels of health insurance coverage and recent routine checkups.
http://starbulletin.com/2004/09/02/news/story1.html
St. Paul Passes Smoking Ban, Veto Likely - Minnesota
Sep 2, 2004 6:32 am US/Central
St. Paul (AP) The City Council has once again passed a smoking ban in bars and restaurants. And once again, Mayor Randy Kelly appears likely to veto the measure.
Kelly has five days once the ordinance is delivered to his office to sign or veto it. The council would then have 30 days to attempt an override, which requires five votes.
http://wcco.com/topstories/local_story_246073541.html
Southampton researchers identify significant link between susceptibility to respiratory disease and weight gain in early infancy
A study by researchers from the University of Southampton and the Medical Research Council (MRC) has shown that lower rates of growth in the womb and higher weight gain in the first weeks after birth could predispose individuals to chest illnesses in later life.
’While the relationship of low birth weight and reduced lung function has been recognised for many years, this is the first work to recognise the relationship between rapid infant weight gain and poor lung function. We believe the reduced lung function in these infants may have implications for susceptibility to later respiratory disease, in particular asthma.’
The research is supported by the charities SPARKS (Sport Aiding medical Research for KidS), The British Lung Foundation, and Hope; and by the Medical Research Council.
More information:www.soton.ac.uk
http://www.innovations-report.com/html/reports/studies/report-33075.html
Posted at 6:36 pm by looped_ca
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Some articles are comented on, and some portions left here.
Prairie Gambling Operations Hurt by Smoking Ban
30 August 2004 REGINA, Saskatchewan
http://www.casinocitytimes.com/news/article.cfm?contentID=145031
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Man sets house on fire trying to kill mosquito
A Japanese man set his parents’ house on fire as he tried to get rid of a mosquito. Police say the property was gutted in the blaze caused by Tatsuo Onishi lighting a cigarette after spraying pesticide outside.
Sparks from his lighter caused an explosion after igniting the flammable particles in the air and flames quickly spread to the building in Matsuyama. Mr. Onishi had been taking a nap inside his car parked outside his home when the mosquito began to annoy him, reports the Mainichi Daily News website. ananova
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=story_31-8-2004_pg9_7
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+How much you want to bet that the law that is going to be voted on is different, and more restrictive. First they tell the public that it is just a small thing. Do not mention many beliefs; do a survey (at this point). They then get council, and try to enact a law. They then get people to allow “discussion”. It then appears at the final step there is a big difference in what the public says and what the bylaw states. This is stage that community is at. When voted on they change the bylaw so that it is “more precise”; which means more restrictive. Will Comment after Sept. 7/04
Public weighs in on smoking amendments BY ANGELA BROOKS Boomerang Staff Writer
http://www.laramieboomerang.com/news/more.asp?StoryID=101810
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Smoking ordinance amended, passes to third reading
By Micah Sturr Boomerang Staff Writer
"Motivated advocates wearing sky blue T-shirts with “Clear The Air” emblazoned across the chest and equally determined opposition sporting “Support Private Rights” T-shirts gathered again on Tuesday night at the city council meeting with each side receiving 24 tickets to speak on the polarizing issue. Overflow from both sides spilled into an adjacent room by order of the fire marshal to watch the council pass the second reading of the ordinance with amendments on television." .......
"By allowing bars with patios to essentially circumvent the ordinance, the city would be granting a business advantage to particular establishments and unfairly penalizing others, councilman Bob Bell said.".......
"A seemingly trivial point of the amendment, that would allow performers to smoke onstage in performance halls if smoking was necessary for artistic expression, was challenged because of concerns that bars and clubs would use this in an attempt to be declared performance halls to circumvent the ordinance." ........
"The council did vote to allow open containers at the tailgate festivities prior to the UW-Appalachian State football game on Sept. 4 in designated lots north and east of War Memorial Stadium. Concerns about underage drinking and drunken rowdiness were voiced, but ultimately the measure passed six to three. "
http://www.laramieboomerang.com/news/archivemore.asp?StoryID=101746
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Internet class aims to curb smoking use
Arizona Daily Wildcat
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
The Arizona Health Sciences Center is launching an Internet-based research project to teach people how to talk to tobacco users about quitting.
http://wildcat.arizona.edu/papers/98/7/01_3.html
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No butts, First Minister praises Irish smoking ban
http://news.scotsman.com/politics.cfm?id=1022792004
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Lithuanian govt endorses program against smoking 31.08.2004, 16.19
VILNIUS, August 31 (Itar-Tass) - Lithuanian government has endorsed a program against smoking, said the press service of the cabinet of ministers.
The documents stipulate "a broader promulgation of knowledge about the hazards of smoking among the population, substantial hikes of tobacco prices, and a gradual ban on smoking in public places".
Official statistics shows a heavy (38.8%) growth of tobacco sales in 2003 versus 2002. They reached 127.2 million euros.
http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=1196375&PageNum=0
*they seem to archive
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*How what’s said can differ from facts
Bush Campaign Cooks the Numbers in Anti-Kerry Ad
http://www.capitolhillblue.com/artman/publish/article_5156.shtml
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Hero Neil rescues family from blaze
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Researchers identify new gene related to breast cancer Asian News International
Washington, August 31
http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/181_980576,0050.htm
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Full Body Scans Raise Cancer Risk, U.S. Study Shows By: Reuters Tue Aug 31, 2004 12:07 AM ET
http://maconareaonline.com/news.asp?id=8231
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Humans march to a faster genetic ’drummer’ than primates
Research runs counter to Darwin’s theory of natural selection
”It is an established fact that 98 percent of the DNA, or the code of life, is exactly the same between humans and chimpanzees. So the key to what it means to be human resides in that other 2 percent. “ …………
”According to Achilles Dugaiczyk, professor of Biochemistry at UCR, one important factor resides in something called Alu DNA repeats, sometimes called "junk DNA." These little understood sections of DNA are volatile, and prone to sudden mutations, or genomic rearrangements. At times the results are beneficial in that they give rise to new proteins or an altered gene regulation. Sometimes the mutations result in the growth of a cancer tumor, or some other genetic defect. “ …………
More Information: www.ucr.ed
http://www.innovations-report.com/html/reports/life_sciences/report-32967.html
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* talk about fear mongering!
Police Want Public Sensitized On Smoking
August 28, 2004 Posted to the web August 30, 2004
Ebenezer Bifubyeka
Kampala, Uganda
THE southwestern regional criminal investigations chief, Terrence Kinyera, has said the Police will not arrest public smokers before they are sensitised.
Last Thursday, environment minister Col. Kahinda Otafiire ordered CID officers at a workshop in Kampala to arrest public smokers.
"It is not good to arrest someone for smoking in public when you have not taught him its dangers," Kinyera said.
In a recent National Environment Management Authority workshop in Kampala, experts said a lit cigarette was disastrous because it emits more dangerous smoke.
Kinyera said smokers should be taught that the smoker inhales filtered smoke and exhales unfiltered smoke, which is dangerous to non-smokers.
However, southwestern regional Police chief Chris Bakesiima said they could not enforce the ban on smoking in public because they have not yet seen any law enforcing it.
"What is a public place for instance? Do you know the definition of a public place? Have you seen the law that bans smoking in public?" Bakesiima asked
http://allafrica.com/stories/200408300217.html
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UNBS to Tighten Grip on Cigarettes
August 31, 2004
Doreen Kansiime Kampala, Uganda
"We have recommended that the packs should have a warning which reads; Cigarette smoking causes lung cancer, heart diseases and death," Ssekitoleko said.
He said the bureau was revising the standards on tobacco so that they are in line with regulations set by the World Health Organization.
"Hopefully, we shall have new standards before the end of the year," Ssekitoleko said.
new standards
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Posted at 12:18 pm by looped_ca
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